Why we should choose biodegradable alternatives to these everyday household items

Share this article

Image: Pixabay

 

Living in the age of consumerism and throw-away culture, we often forget that most of what we throw out may never quite “disappear” in our lifetime. And according to the National Environment Agency, Singapore’s solid waste output has increased from 1,260 tonnes per day in 1970 to 8,402 tonnes per day in 2015. At this shocking rate, the repercussions of an increasing amount of waste will only leave the planet in a dire, irreversible condition.

As manufacturing technology improves, we create more non-biodegradable products that do not break down naturally. Did you know that the humble plastic bag used to carry a takeout meal takes 200 to 1,000 years to decompose? Or that a disposable diaper takes 550 years?

As more of such waste builds up, we begin to see its impact on the environment. For instance, when left exposed to the natural elements in the long term, petroleum-based products (like plastic) can emit toxic pollutants into the soil or water, in turn harming our health.

On the other hand, biodegradable products are much kinder to our planet, so choose to use them instead. Made from natural materials, they can be broken back down into gases, water, and simple organic molecules by the action of biological organisms and processes. In fact, biodegradable waste can be used for composting (see this) or as a resource for heat, electricity and fuel when incinerated.


So, before you grab that styrofoam cup at the office pantry, remember that greener alternatives are available.


1. Non-biodegradable product: Foam food container

Time it takes to decompose: 50 years

Greener alternative: Use compostable food container or bring your own lunch box


2. Non-biodegradable product: Aluminium can

Time it takes to decompose: 200 years

Greener alternative: Recycle


3. Non-biodegradable product: Plastic bottle

Time it takes to decompose: 450 years

Greener alternative: Use reusable bottle


4. Non-biodegradable product: Disposable diapers

Time it takes to decompose: 550 years

Greener alternative: Use cloth diapers


5. Non-biodegradable product: Styrofoam cup

Time it takes to decompose: 500 years

Greener alternative: Use paper cups or bring your own travel mug


6. Non-biodegradable product:  Plastic bag

Time it takes to decompose: 200 to 1,000 years

Greener alternative: Use a reusable shopping bag


7. Non-biodegradable product:  Glass bottle

Time it takes to decompose: Undetermined

Greener alternative: Recycle

 

 

 

Share this article